Philodendron rubrijuvenile El Choco Red

Philodendron 'El Choco Red' is an exotic houseplant that captivates with its large, velvety heart-shaped leaves, displaying a deep green on top and a burgundy-red underside. This colour combination brings a tropical and elegant touch to your interior decor, particularly in contemporary or bohemian styles. A true favourite among houseplant enthusiasts, this philodendron thrives in bright rooms but without direct sunlight. With its naturally climbing habit, it will need a support stake, allowing its leaves to grow larger and more impressive.

Philodendron 'El Choco Red' is a perennial climbing plant belonging to the Araceae family. Although this variety is sometimes linked to the species Philodendron rubrijuvenile, the taxonomy of philodendrons is complex and subject to revision. Information regarding its breeder and date of introduction is not clearly documented, suggesting it may be a variety discovered in situ rather than a nursery-bred cultivar. Philodendron 'El Choco Red' exhibits relatively fast growth, easily reaching a height of 60 cm indoors. With adequate support, the plant can climb even higher. Its habit is climbing, with sturdy stems equipped with aerial roots that cling to surrounding supports while absorbing ambient moisture. The velvety-textured leaves are heart-shaped and measure between 20 and 40 cm in length. The young leaves are tinged with bright red, gradually darkening to a deep green. They then display a top surface marked by light veins and a burgundy-red underside, creating a stunning contrast. Flowering indoors is rare and subtle. All parts of the Philodendron 'El Choco Red' contain calcium oxalates, substances that are toxic if ingested, potentially causing oral and digestive irritation.

Philodendron 'El Choco Red' should be guided onto a moss or coir-covered stake, which mimics natural conditions and provides optimal support for the plant. In return, it will develop larger, more luxuriant leaves as it climbs. Consider pairing it with a Monstera adansonii, whose perforated leaves contrast beautifully with its red underside, or a Calathea orbifolia, which adds elegant patterns with its striped foliage.